Estimation of the Maximal Lactate Steady State in Endurance Runners

• Published in: International journal of sports medicine 2016-06, Vol.37 (7), p.539-546
• Main Authors: Llodio, I., Gorostiaga, E. M., Garcia-Tabar, I., Granados, C., Sánchez-Medina, L.
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Adult; Exercise Test; Heart Rate; Humans; Lactic Acid - blood; Male; Physical Endurance; Running - physiology; Training & Testing
• ISSN: 0172-4622; 1439-3964
• DOI: 10.1055/s-0042-102653

Abstract This study aimed to predict the velocity corresponding to the maximal lactate steady state (MLSS V ) from non-invasive variables obtained during a maximal multistage running field test (modified University of Montreal Track Test, UMTT), and to determine whether a single constant velocity test (CVT), performed several days after the UMTT, could estimate the MLSS V . Within 4–5 weeks, 20 male runners performed: 1) a modified UMTT, and 2) several 30 min CVTs to determine MLSS V to a precision of 0.25 km·h −1 . Maximal aerobic velocity (MAV) was the best predictor of MLSS V . A regression equation was obtained: MLSS V =1.425+(0.756·MAV); R 2 =0.63. Running velocity during the CVT (V CVT ) and blood lactate at 6 (La 6 ) and 30 (La 30 ) min further improved the MLSS V prediction: MLSS V =V CVT +0.503 – (0.266·ΔLa 30–6 ); R 2 =0.66. MLSS V can be estimated from MAV during a single maximal multistage running field test among a homogeneous group of trained runners. This estimation can be further improved by performing an additional CVT. In terms of accuracy, simplicity and cost-effectiveness, the reported regression equations can be used for the assessment and training prescription of endurance runners.